Spirituality

Question 1

Discuss themes associated with the concept of spirituality

Answer 1

meaning, purpose, hope, faith, existentialism, transcendence, sense of peace and connectedness among others

Question 2

Definition of Spirituality

Answer 2

defined as “whatever or whoever gives ultimate meaning or purpose in one’s life, that invites ways of being in the world in relation to others, oneself and the universe”.

Question 3

Describe the impact of spirituality and religion on the family’s experience of health, illness and suffering

Answer 3

• provide personal coping resources
• leads to reflection
• means of gaining hope in midst of family suffering

Question 4

Definition of suffering

Answer 4

any emotional, physical or spiritual anguish, distress or pain

Question 5

Describe how relational skills create an opening for families to discuss their spiritual beliefs and valiues

Answer 5

1. Enter into the encounter of suffering with individuals and families
   - allow the sufferer to arise in the therapeutic conversation between the nurse and family
2. Invite stories of illness suffering to understand the impact of illness on people’s lives and relationships
   - ask more than just the medical story
   - we need to also need to know about the experience of the illness
   - how has the illness change your life and relationships?
   - what has been the impact on your marriage, your family, your sexual relations, your parenting, your work?
3. Listen actively by listening with our hearts; being fully present; being “behind our eyes”.
4. Offering compassion, love, and connection are essential ingredients to facilitate healing
5. Acknowledge suffering and the sufferer is indispensable for healing to have a chance to thrive
6. Explore the meaning and purposes that family members give to their suffering experiences
7. Offering hope to facilitate healing

Question 6

What is softening suffering

Answer 6

it is the moral and ethical obligation for nurses to soften the emotional, physical and spiritual suffering of individuals and families in our care

Question 7

Spiritual intervention

Answer 7

Art
music
nature
relaxation therapy
reiki
prayer